Neurological Rehabilitation in Cuba
CIREN — International Center for Neurological Restoration
Intensive, multidisciplinary neurorehabilitation programs based on neuroplasticity. Up to 7 hours of daily therapy in personalized 4-week cycles. Serving patients from 85+ countries since 1989.
International Center for Neurological Restoration
CIREN (Centro Internacional de Restauración Neurológica) is a specialized neurological rehabilitation institution in Havana, Cuba, founded in 1989. It provides intensive, multidisciplinary neurorestorative rehabilitation programs for patients with neurological injuries and degenerative diseases, drawing patients from more than 85 countries.
CIREN's approach is based on the scientific principle of neuroplasticity — the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections. Programs combine pharmacological, surgical, and neuro-restoration methods within a multifactorial, intensive treatment model with daily therapy sessions of up to 7 hours.
Medical Specialties
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Physiotherapy
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Psychology and Cognitive Therapy
- Biomedical Research
Technology & Facilities
- High-resolution neuroimaging for diagnosis and monitoring
- Robotic-assisted rehabilitation systems for motor recovery
- Neurostimulation and neuromodulation devices
- Specialized motion analysis laboratories for gait and mobility assessment
Neurological Rehabilitation Programs
CIREN provides specialized rehabilitation programs for a range of neurological conditions. Each program is personalized following comprehensive evaluation by CIREN's medical team.
The CIREN Process
From initial medical record review to follow-up after program completion, SMC Salud coordinates every step of the CIREN journey for international patients.
Medical Record Review
Patients submit their medical records, imaging studies, and current functional assessments for review by CIREN's medical team. SMC Salud assists with gathering and organizing these documents.
Pre-Evaluation
CIREN's specialists review the submitted records to determine eligibility and develop a preliminary treatment plan. This evaluation helps ensure the program is appropriate for the patient's condition.
Treatment Planning
If accepted, a personalized treatment plan is developed based on the pre-evaluation. The plan outlines the program duration, therapy components, and recovery objectives.
Travel Coordination
SMC Salud coordinates travel logistics including visa support, accommodation arrangements, and ground transportation in Havana. Patients receive a detailed travel itinerary.
Rehabilitation Program
The patient attends CIREN's intensive Neurological Restoration Program in Havana. The program includes daily therapy sessions of up to 7 hours, delivered in 4-week cycles with defined recovery objectives.
Follow-Up
After completing the program, patients receive a discharge summary and recommendations for continued rehabilitation at home. SMC Salud remains available for follow-up coordination and support.
Ready to Explore CIREN?
Request a medical evaluation to find out if CIREN's program is right for you or your loved one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NeuralCIM and how is it used at CIREN?
NeuralCIM is a Cuban biotechnology product developed by the Center for Molecular Immunology (CIM) in Havana. It is a modified form of erythropoietin designed to support neuron survival and modulate neuroinflammation. At CIREN, NeuralCIM is used as part of a comprehensive neurorehabilitation program — not as a standalone medication — and is administered alongside intensive therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, and multidisciplinary care. NeuralCIM is not FDA-approved and is not available in the United States.
Is NeuralCIM a cure for Alzheimer's or other neurological conditions?
No. There is no known cure for Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, or most neurological conditions treated at CIREN. NeuralCIM and CIREN's rehabilitation programs are designed to support cognitive function, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life through neuroprotective and rehabilitative approaches. No treatment can reverse or stop these progressive diseases. Outcomes vary by individual and cannot be guaranteed.
How is Cuba's treatment protocol different from what's available in the US?
Cuba's neurorehabilitation protocol at CIREN combines NeuralCIM neuroprotective therapy with intensive, multidisciplinary rehabilitation — up to 7 hours of daily therapy in 4-week cycles. This level of intensity and the use of NeuralCIM are not available through US healthcare providers. CIREN's approach is based on neuroplasticity principles, combining pharmacological, physical, cognitive, and psychological therapies in a single coordinated program.
Is NeuralCIM approved by the FDA or available in the United States?
No. NeuralCIM is a Cuban biotechnology product that is not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is not available in the United States. CIREN operates under the authority of Cuba's Ministry of Public Health. Patients considering treatment in Cuba should consult with their own physicians before pursuing international medical care.
How do international patients access CIREN's treatment program?
The process begins with submitting your medical records — including imaging studies (MRI/CT), neurological evaluations, medication lists, and functional assessments — for review by CIREN's medical team. SMC Salud coordinates this pre-evaluation at no cost. If accepted, a personalized treatment plan is developed, and we assist with visa support, travel logistics, accommodation, and ground transportation in Havana.
Can I get a medical evaluation without traveling to Cuba?
Yes. CIREN's medical team reviews your medical records remotely as part of the pre-evaluation process. You upload your imaging studies, neurological reports, and physician notes through our secure portal, and you receive a written assessment of eligibility and a preliminary treatment plan — typically within 24–48 hours. No travel is required for this initial evaluation.
How long is a typical treatment program at CIREN?
CIREN's Neurological Restoration Program is delivered in 4-week cycles, with up to 7 hours of daily therapy. The number of recommended cycles depends on the individual evaluation, the condition being treated, and the patient's progress. Each cycle has defined recovery objectives set by CIREN's medical team. Some patients may benefit from multiple cycles spaced over time.
Is it safe to travel to Cuba for medical treatment?
Cuba has a long-established medical tourism infrastructure, and CIREN has served patients from more than 85 countries since 1989. SMC Salud coordinates all travel logistics, including visa support, accommodation near the treatment center, and ground transportation. However, all medical decisions should be made in consultation with your own physician, and you should consider the risks of international travel for your specific health condition.
Do doctors and staff at CIREN speak English?
CIREN has experience treating international patients from over 85 countries. Medical staff and patient coordinators are accustomed to working with international patients, and SMC Salud provides coordination and translation support throughout your stay. We recommend discussing any language concerns during your initial consultation so appropriate support can be arranged.
Will my US insurance cover treatment at CIREN?
CIREN's programs are typically not covered by US health insurance plans, as CIREN is a Cuban institution and its programs are not FDA-approved. Treatment is generally self-pay. SMC Salud can provide cost estimates after your pre-evaluation, and we offer guidance on payment options. We recommend confirming coverage details with your insurance provider before making any decisions.
What happens after I complete the treatment program and return home?
After completing the program, you receive a discharge summary with recommendations for continued rehabilitation at home. CIREN's medical team provides a structured care plan that can be shared with your US physician. SMC Salud remains available for follow-up coordination, and remote monitoring support can be arranged. Long-term rehabilitation outcomes depend on continued therapy and individual factors.
How do I get started with the CIREN evaluation process?
Contact SMC Salud through our inquiry form or patient coordinators. You'll need to provide your medical history, imaging studies, neurological evaluations, and current medications. Our team reviews your records and coordinates the pre-evaluation with CIREN's specialists — often within 24–48 hours. There is no obligation, and the initial evaluation is provided at no cost.
Neurological Rehabilitation by U.S. State
State-specific resources for U.S. patients exploring CIREN's neurorehabilitation program in Cuba.
Neurological Rehabilitation by U.S. Region
Broader regional guides covering multiple states — ideal if you're searching from a multi-state area or want a wider view of neurorehabilitation resources.
Neurology & Neurorehabilitation
Medical Disclaimer: Information about CIREN's programs is provided for educational purposes only. SMC Salud facilitates coordination and travel logistics; all medical decisions are made by CIREN's medical team following individual evaluation. Rehabilitation outcomes vary by individual and cannot be guaranteed.